June – July
As the deep blues and greys of the sky stretch across the land, Makuru settles in, bringing crisp air, soaking rains, and a welcome stillness. Spanning June and July, it’s the coldest of the Noongar seasons, a time when the earth rests under heavy clouds and the nights grow long.
In Noongar culture, Makuru signals a turning inward. Waterways swell, wildlife stirs, and wildflowers begin to bloom. Along the coast, whales make their slow, northern journey, a stirring reminder of nature’s cycles. It’s a season of grounding and nourishment. Across the region, hearty meals and red wine offer warmth as fires crackle and rain runs softly down your windows.
But Makuru also reveals the raw beauty of the South West. Brisk hikes, storm-drenched coastlines, and quiet forests invite a deeper connection with the wild. In this blog, we’ll explore how to embrace the season, finding comfort, wellness, and wonder in winter’s embrace.
Spotlight On… Winter
Bunbury Geographe
Winter in the Bunbury Geographe region invites slow exploration, with the City of Bunbury at its heart. Fringed by ocean, bay, and inlet, Bunbury offers stormy coastal walks, a thriving arts scene, and cosy spots to warm up. Start your day with coffee at Benesse, explore vibrant street art and the iconic Bunbury Regional Art Gallery, then settle in at Market Eating House for a soul-warming meal. With winter events at the Bunbury Museum and Heritage Centre, and marine life encounters at the Dolphin Discovery Centre, the city blends culture, nature, and comfort, perfect for a restful winter escape.
Margaret River Region
Makuru in the Margaret River Region is raw, invigorating, and deeply local. Mornings start with icy ocean plunges at Yallingup or Redgate, an energising ritual for those in the know, followed by strong coffee and slow, scenic drives through misty vineyards. Fires crackle in cosy cellar doors, and locals gather over shared plates and pints at Beerfarm, where the atmosphere is always warm, no matter the weather. Storm-watching from rugged clifftops, truffle-rich menus, and forest walks under dripping karri trees remind you that winter here is something to savour. It’s a time to lean in, slow down, and experience the region the way locals do – wild, grounded, and connected.
Southern Forests and Valleys
In the Southern Forests and Valleys, winter is a time of stillness, mists, and magic. Towering karri trees disappear into low-hanging clouds, and the scent of woodsmoke lingers in the air. Cosy farm gate stops and cellar doors offer rich seasonal produce and warming reds, while trails wind through rain-drenched forests alive with birdsong. Nestled on the edge of Lake Beedelup, RAC Karri Valley Resort is the perfect base, think fireside views, canoeing in the fog, and morning walks beneath rain-drenched canopies. Here, winter is quiet and grounding, inviting you to breathe deeper, wander slower, and reconnect with the wild beauty of the land.
Great Southern
As Makuru settles over the Great Southern, the land breathes a still power… crisp air, soaking rains, and wild, open beauty. Along Albany’s rugged coast steel-grey skies set the mood for immersive moments at the National ANZAC Centre and Albany’s Historic Whaling Station, where history meets the elements. In Denmark, warm up with cheese and wine at Heycape Tiny Cabins, surrounded by misty vines and karri forest. Venture inland through the Great Southern Treasures, where charming towns and winding country roads reveal local artisans, rain-washed trails, and fireside finds. This is Makuru at its finest: raw, reflective, and ready to explore.
ACTIVITIES
Nature & Wildlife
You may have already heard the song of the whales as they began their migration past Bremer Bay and Albany. Now, during Makuru, these majestic Southern Right, Humpback and Blue Whales can be spotted around Augusta and Cape Naturaliste, pausing in the calm bays before continuing their journey north. It’s one of the most awe-inspiring sights of the season, nature’s giants moving in rhythm with the winter tides. To experience this spectacle, join a tour with Whale Watch Western Australia, Naturaliste Charters, or All Sea Charters.
Adventure
Embrace the wild beauty of Makuru with BKB Holidays’ South West Self-Drive Packages – a winter adventure designed for those who crave freedom and discovery. These 10-day itineraries guide you through the heart of Australia’s South West, from the misty forests of Pemberton to the dramatic coastlines of Albany and the rich wine country of Margaret River. With car hire, handpicked accommodations, and the flexibility to explore at your own pace, it’s the perfect way to experience the season’s crisp air, roaring surf, and cosy fireside moments.
Wine, Food & Produce
As Makuru settles over Australia’s South West, the region’s flavours grow deeper and richer. In Manjimup, the heart of truffle country, earthy black truffles are found beneath muddy forest floors, adding a touch of indulgence to winter feasts. Visit Truffle Hill and join a hunt with Australian Truffle Hunters to experience the magic firsthand. In Margaret River, explore the Margaret River Truffle Farm, then warm up with bold local reds and seasonal dishes. From paddock-to-plate tastings to roaring-fire dining, Makuru is a celebration of comfort, connection, and the vibrant winter harvest.
Wellness
Makuru is a time to retreat, restore, and reconnect, and there’s no better way to do that than with a winter glamping escape in Australia’s South West. Stay in cosy bell tents at Olio Bello or unwind among the vines in Walk Talk Taste’s boutique glamping experience in Margaret River. Surrounded by crisp mornings, fresh air, and the quiet rhythm of the season, it’s the perfect setting for a digital detox and a dose of winter wellness.
EVENTS
Collie River MTB Marathon
Bunbury Geographe
Held during the heart of Makuru, the Collie River MTB Marathon takes riders on an exhilarating journey through the forested valleys and flowing rivers of the Collie region. Whether you’re hitting the trails or cheering from the sidelines, it’s a thrilling way to experience the rugged beauty of winter in the South West.
Cabin Fever
Margaret River Region
During Makuru, the Margaret River Region turns up the heat with Cabin Fever Festival, a fiery celebration of winter indulgence. From blazing bonfires and cosy long-table dinners to live music and bold red wines, this 10-day event stretches from Busselton to Margaret River, serving up the best of the South West. Whether you’re roasting marshmallows or dancing under stormy skies, it’s the ultimate way to embrace winter’s wild spirit.
For more events during Makuru visit our Events page.
ACCOMODATION
Lake Brockman Tourist Park
Bunbury Geographe
Set beside the calm waters of Logue Brook Dam, Lake Brockman Tourist Park is a peaceful base for your Makuru escape. Surrounded by towering forests, it’s the perfect place for winter walks, trout fishing, and nights by the fire. Cosy cabins and glamping tents offer comfort after a day in the cool, fresh air.
Edge Luxury Villas
Margaret River Region
Cradled among Wilyabrup’s winter vines, Edge Luxury Villas offers a refined retreat for the cooler Makuru months. Designed for adults, each villa features a fireplace, stone bath, and private lake views, perfect for slow mornings and snuggling in style.
BIG4 Bridgetown
Southern Forests and Valleys
Nestled along the Blackwood River, BIG4 Bridgetown offers a serene winter retreat during Makuru. With misty mornings, riverside walks, and the charm of Bridgetown’s heritage-listed town centre just a short stroll away, it’s an ideal spot to embrace the season’s stillness. Whether you’re cosying up in a cabin or camping under the stars, it’s a perfect base to explore the Southern Forests and Valleys.
Bremer Bay Beaches Resort Tourist Park
Great Southern
Tucked beneath peppermint trees and just moments from the Southern Ocean, Bremer Bay Beaches Resort Tourist Park offers a cosy base for your Makuru escape. Embrace the season with dreamy beach walks, whale spotting, and fireside evenings. Whether you’re seeking adventure or relaxation, it’s the perfect spot to reconnect with nature and unwind.
For seasonal specials head to winterdownsouth.com
